Galil Blog
Shabbat Shalom, Galil Families!
Saturday at Camp Galil was full of the peaceful energy and community spirit that make Shabbat such a special time here at machaneh.
The morning began with a restful sleep-in, giving everyone the chance to recharge after a spirited week. Campers eased into the day with card games in the Mini Mo and breakfast of donuts and cereal. Shabbat mornings are designed to feel different—slower, more intentional, and grounded in rest and reflection, mirroring the value of menucha (rest) that is at the heart of Shabbat.
Later in the morning, campers split up to attend Bogrim Chuggim—fun and creative activities led by our oldest campers—and Chuggim Ritzinim, where chanichimot engage in more chill educational discussions in a relaxed setting. It’s a unique Galil tradition that brings learning to life, emphasizing that education can be joyful, reflective, and youth-led.
Each shichva (age group) enjoyed Shabbat lunch outdoors, spread out around camp. A delicious meal—pita, falafel, and fresh salad. In the afternoon, our Madatz (CITs) had their turn to shine with an all-camp Madatz Peula—a high-energy, creative activity designed entirely by them. Watching the Madatz engage campers across age groups is a testament to the deep bonds that form here and the responsibility we encourage our teens to take in shaping the culture of camp.
During the afternoon’s long block of chofesh (free time), we swam, played soccer and frisbee, and soaked up the sun all around machaneh. We also had a special treat – an airdrop of candy by a parade of five planes!!! Before long, it was musicale! One of the most special parts of Shabbat: Musicale! Every week, campers bring their talents—singing, songwriting, rapping, and playing instruments—to the Mini Mo porch. The acts were quite impressive this week. Musicale is not just about showcasing talent; it’s a space where campers express themselves freely and celebrate one another’s creativity.
For dinner, we had chicken sandwiches and french fries, an ever-popular meal among the kids. As the sun set on our second Shabbat of the session, it was time for kumzits, where we all gather outside the mini mo to sing folk songs that capture the essence of camp. Then we ended Shabbat with our havdalah ceremony. We laid in the grass as the stars came out and reflected on the week before singing the traditional prayers and symbolically extinguishing the havdalah candle.
Even though Shabbat was over, the night wasn’t. We all headed down the trail to the medurah pit, where a huge bonfire awaited. We watched and laughed as the kids entertained their friends with talent displays and comedy routines. Finally, we all went to the chadar ochel (dining hall) for our Saturday night ice cream party!
Laila tov!